How Local CIOs Can Help Narrow the Digital Divide Amid COVID

Defeating the digital divide is much more than wiring up a home with an Internet connection. Families, particularly those with school-age children, often experience gaps in device access, digital literacy and cyberhygiene. There might not be enough devices, the hardware may be outdated or incompatible, and there may be a lack of security software. The household may also need training, have privacy concerns or require additional digital wraparound services. Our public library allies will continue to play a vital role in supporting these programs and needs.

Government CIOs and IT directors are well-positioned to step forward to wear another hat as a visionary technology leader for their communities. There needs to be a collective sense of urgency to move this effort forward. We can help connect dots among nonprofits, our residents and the private sector. It’s time to lobby the broadband carriers to be true partners in bringing everyone online. Our communities need this vision from us now more than ever. 

[Luke Stowe is CIO and interim director of administrative services for Evanston (IL)]